The government has extended funding for the Post Office (PO) to enable late applications by postmasters to the Historical Shortfall Scheme.

The Historical Shortfall Scheme was launched in May 2020 to compensate postmasters who had to cover financial shortfalls in their branch’s accounts caused by the Horizon IT system, but were not convicted.

Despite 82% of eligible claimants having now received an offer, and £52m distributed in total, individuals remain who were unable to apply for the scheme while it was open, due to illness or being abroad.

New postal affairs minister, Dean Russell said: “My priority is to ensure that all those impacted by the Horizon scandal receive compensation fairly and quickly.

“By coming forward with additional funding, we are ensuring that innocent postmasters who were unable to tap into the Historical Shortfall Scheme do not miss out on the compensation they deserve.”

PO will be writing to all individuals who have contacted them about a late application to inform them of the deadline extension.

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